Why retire on Lake Chapala, Mexico? There are several compelling reasons; a relaxing lifestyle on one of the most beautiful lake locations on this continent, astounding views of that lake and the surrounding hills, the beautiful nature all around, perfect for relaxing drives, bike rides, or walks along the lakefront, and the quaint, traditional Mexican villages of Ajijic and Chapala are only a few of the reasons why Lake Chapala Real Estate is ideal for retirement. One of the best things about Lake Chapala is that it's very affordable – both in terms of lifestyle and in terms of real state.
While soon-to-be retirees in the U.S. and in Canada choose to Live in Mexico because of the low cost of life, Lake Chapala is the Mexico Retirement Community which offers the best balance of an established community of American and Canadian retirees, excellent services and conveniences, and a low cost of life.
The cost of day to day items, restaurants, attractions and activities is, in fact, so affordable that the area is advertised even for middle-class Mexicans as a cheap destination. On the other hand, many of Mexico's beachfront destinations, while offering an excellent quality of life at a price that's accessible to foreigners, are considered to be inaccessibly expensive by many Mexicans. (Another wonderful thing that many retirees comment about their life in Lake Chapala is the positive relationship between the American and Canadian community and the Mexican locals and visitors.)
Considering that Ajijic and Chapala are cheap even for Mexican visitors, this means that retirement savings will last that much longer here. The first time retirees will notice their savings, both compared to back home and to the rest of Mexico, is the property prices. Most cities that are established as favorites for Americans and Canadians have home prices starting around $250,000 US, and this would usually be a "fixer-upper" – something you have to put into shape before you use it.
In Chapala decent homes for a comfortable retirement can be found staring as low as $150,000. Of course, the Lake Chapala area offers homes considerably more expensive ($800,000 US and up) for those who prefer higher-end luxury, but this just means that the buyer will be getting that much more luxury for his money, compared to other locations. The cost of living, including day to day products, health care services and shopping is likewise very affordable in Ajijic, Chapala and the surrounding villages.
The fact that the Lake Chapala area is cheap, however, does not mean that it is any way second best. The area offers several miles of beautiful boardwalks and many miles of lake front, with tennis courts, volleyball courts, and many other facilities for enjoying day to day life. There are also great restaurants and many, many social clubs organized by the Americans and Canadians who are already here.
Guadalajara, Mexico's second largest city, is only 60 km away. On the Chapala-side of the city, there is an international airport, which has a wide range of direct flights to all major North American destinations. Some of Mexico's highest-reputation state-of-the-art health care is available in Guadalajara at prices considerably lower than prices north of the border. The city also provides more opportunities for shopping and site-seeing for anyone who needs a break from relaxing.
According to many visitors, Chapala is an ideal place to spend a couple of weeks, a weekend or just a few hours; imagine actually living in this beautiful, relaxing place for entire retirement!
TOPMexicoRealEstate NETWORK; Mexico's Leading Network of Specialists for Finding and Purchasing Mexican Properties Safely
